The Ralph Lauren Corporation announced Friday afternoon that it has decided to “suspend our sponsorship” Justin Thomas, who made an anti-gay slur in last Saturday’s third round of the Sentry Champions Tournament.
“We are sorry for Mr Thomas’ recent language, which is completely inconsistent with our values,” the statement read. in his words, he is a paid ambassador for our brand and his actions run counter to the inclusive culture we are trying to maintain, by reflecting on our responsibilities. on all our stakeholders, we have decided to suspend Mr Thomas’ funding at this time.
“As we make this decision, it is our hope that Mr Thomas will do all the hard and necessary work to engage with us again – truly exploring this event, learning, learning. growth and ultimately using its platform to promote inclusion. “
Thomas, who has been with the brand since turning pro in 2013, said the slur after missing a putt on Kapalua’s fourth hole and then apologized after his tour.
“There are no excuses,” Thomas told Golf Channel shortly afterwards. “I’m an adult. I’m an adult. There’s no reason for me to say anything like that. It’s awful. I’m ashamed. It’s not who I am. I’m not the type of person.. But unfortunately i did it and i have to keep up with it and i am very sorry.
“Like I said, it’s sad. I am speechless. It’s bad. There is no other way to put it. I need to do better. I need to get better. It is definitely a learning experience. I am sorry for anyone and everyone who has committed a crime and I will be better because of it. ”
The Golf Channel reached out to the Thomas production, which was not reported at this time.
Justin Thomas apologizes for using homophobic slur at TOC
Full statement here:
At Ralph Lauren Corporation, we believe in the dignity of all individuals, regardless of age, race, gender identity, ethnicity, political affiliation or sexual orientation. This is part of our long-term commitment to nurturing indigenous cultures – in the workplace and in communities around the world.
We are sorry for Mr Thomas’ s recent language, which is completely inconsistent with our values. While we acknowledge his apology and acknowledge the seriousness of his words, he is a paid ambassador for our brand and his actions run counter to the inclusive culture that prevails. we try to keep up.
Reflecting on our responsibility to all our stakeholders, we have decided to suspend Mr Thomas’ sponsorship at this time. As we make this decision, it is our hope that Mr Thomas will do all the hard and necessary work to engage with us again – truly exploring this event, learning, growing and ultimately using its platform to promote inclusion.